New Delhi, April 11, 2025 — The National Medical Commission (NMC) announced on Friday that voluntary participation of postgraduate medical students in providing healthcare during the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand will be considered as part of their mandatory District Residency Programme (DRP).
The DRP, introduced in 2021, requires PG students to serve three months in district health systems to gain practical experience. NMC chairman Dr. B.N. Gangadhar clarified that participation in the yatra-related duty is entirely voluntary and not an alternative imposed on students.
The Char Dham Yatra — covering Yamunotri, Gangotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath — begins April 30 and continues until October. It draws millions of pilgrims every year and poses unique healthcare challenges, particularly related to high altitudes.
Dr. Raghav Langer, NMC secretary, noted in a circular that the situation offers a “unique opportunity” for students to gain experience in medical care under different conditions. He added that nodal officers would assist in coordinating volunteer postings in collaboration with Uttarakhand’s health department.
While many resident doctors appreciated the opportunity, they called for better oversight. Dr. Lakhshya Mittal from the United Doctors Front emphasized the need for real-time monitoring. FORDA’s Aviral Mathur said the Yatra should not replace DRP in district hospitals and demanded extra incentives for those serving in difficult terrains.
Dr. Gangadhar reiterated that DRP stipends would be provided as per current norms, but no additional stipend would be paid for the Char Dham duty, as it remains voluntary.
